Thursday, December 28, 2017

TIRED OF TOSSING AND TURNING AT NIGHT?

Healthy sleep habits can greatly improve our quality of life.

If all you’re dreaming of is a good night’s sleep, you’re not alone. Lack of sleep can take a massive toll on our mental and physical health. The following tips will help you get the sleep you need:

  1. It's a No-Glo - Hide all light no matter how faint and turn off your smartphone at least 30 minutes before going to bed.
  2. Chill Out & Warm Up - Keep the bedroom temperature cool and wear socks to bed to help your body evenly transfer heat to the extremities.
  3. Light Bright - Take in all the daylight you can as it changes the melatonin levels in your body which causes you to sleep better when darkness falls.
  4. Keep it Regular - Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. If you get poor sleep one night, don’t have a nap as it will affect your internal clock.
  5. Stay Fit - Exercising early in the day can help you sleep better but avoid it at night. Instead, ease muscle tension with some light, relaxing stretches before hitting the sack.
  6. No Worries - Write a to-do list before going to bed in order to flush out your thoughts and worries. Keep a journal beside your bed just in case your mind starts racing.

Lack of sleep can contribute to major physical and emotional health problems so it's important to consistently practice positive sleep habits. The above suggestions will help you peacefully drift off to sleep each night so you'll be much more energetic and productive throughout the day. Sweet dreams!

Monday, December 18, 2017

SETTING THE STAGE FOR A PERFECT SALE


You only get one chance to make a great first impression!

When you put your home on the market, your goal is to sell it quickly and for top dollar. Properly staging your home from day one will create an amazing impression that will generate a huge buzz!

Staging isn't so much an expense as it is an investment. Not only is your home likely to sell for a higher price but it will probably sell much faster which is important because homes that sit on the market can quickly lose their value.

Staging starts with an ultra clean, de-cluttered and de-personalized home. Buying a home is an emotional decision so buyers must be able to envision themselves living there which is why photographs, trophies and kids' artwork have to go.

A stager also ensures your home is inviting to buyers by enhancing the functionality and flow of each room. They can remove and store furniture so the house looks as spacious as possible and use lighting and other tricks to warm up the feel of your home. A properly staged home will also look much more appealing to those browsing online which will generate more showings.

If you want to stage your home yourself, you'll have to go beyond the basics. Start cleaning up the front yard, the porch, the garage and don’t forget the back garden. Buyers have a tough time visualizing themselves in unfurnished rooms so turn your craft room back into a bedroom or transform an awkward nook into a reading spot by setting out a comfy chair and lamp.

Great lighting will create a warm and welcoming ambience so make sure you update your light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs. Buyers will also be snooping through your cupboards and closets as storage space is often an important factor so don’t forget to stage those areas as well.

A well staged home is much more likely to make a great first impression and capture the hearts of homebuyers. Whether you pay a professional to stage your home or do the work yourself, staging is a worthwhile investment that will massively increase the odds of your home selling quickly and for top dollar.

Monday, December 11, 2017

KITCHENER-WATERLOO REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE

Typical November for home sales in Kitchener-Waterloo.

Last month a total of 425 residential properties sold in Kitchener-Waterloo and area through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR).

Home sales in November were down 20.1 per cent compared to the same month last year, but on par with the previous 5-year November average of 424 sales.

November’s sales included 246 detached homes (down 30.9 per cent), and 99 condominium units (down 15.4 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 52 semi-detached homes (up 67.7 per cent) and 27 freehold townhouses (down 3.6 per cent).

“Last month’s sales levels were typical for November,” says James Craig, President of KWAR. “The twenty percent drop compared to last year is relative to November 2016’s record breaking month”.

The average price of all residential properties sold last month increased 8 per cent to $445,363 compared to November 2016. Detached homes sold for an average price of $515,721, an increase of 8.9 per cent compared to November 2016.

During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $277,660 for an increase of 30.7 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $369,678 (up 19.3 per cent) and $376,677 (up 15.1 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in November increased 9.7 per cent to $415,000, and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 12.1 per cent to $476,500.

REALTORS® listed 601 residential properties in K-W and area last month, a 22.6 per cent increase compared to November of 2016. The number of active residential listings on the KWAR’s MLS® System to the end of November totaled 740, which is 50 per cent more than November of last year, but still well below the previous five-year average of 1,318 listings for November.

“Kitchener-Waterloo’s housing market continues to be in favour of sellers, however with listings trending higher, we are seeing more balance,” says Craig. “While the majority of MLS® System activity is properties for sale, we are noticing more residential properties for lease,” commented Craig. “In fact, last month there were 42 residential properties leased, which is an increase of 83% compared to November of 2016.”

Monday, November 20, 2017

SMART HOME SECURITY MADE SIMPLE


A fully secure home will provide you with peace of mind.

Whether you’re at home sleeping or away on vacation, it’s important to know that your home is secure.  A secure home is also much more attractive to potential buyers when it comes time to sell.

Smart lighting, remote locks and wireless cameras can all make your home safer; however, the issue of cyber criminals hacking into smart home systems is a valid concern so homeowners shouldn’t forget about the basics.

Eliminate potential hiding spots by trimming down bushes that are around your windows and doors.  Most thieves are opportunists who see an open door or window and decide to take a chance and see what they can make off with.

Next, install strike plates on your doors to help protect the deadbolt from crowbars or kick attacks.  Thieves want to get into your home as quickly as possible so if one forceful kick doesn't work, they’ll likely turn and run.

Windows are also popular break in points so install heavy sash or keyed locks.  Installing an eyebolt in window corners also prevents the window from being opened from the outside.  Glass block windows are an excellent choice as they look attractive, can't be opened and are extremely difficult to break.

Give the impression your home is lived in while you're away on vacation by installing a dusk-to-dawn porch light.  Although technology allows you to control blinds and lights right from your smartphone, you'll still need to find someone to rake your leaves as there isn’t an app for that yet!


When it comes to home security, paying attention to the little things can often make a huge difference so take time to "case the joint" and list all the security failures that burglars would appreciate.  Potential buyers will prefer a secure home as it's one less thing for them to worry about so you may as well do it sooner than later so that you can enjoy the benefits as well.

Monday, November 6, 2017

KITCHENER-WATERLOO REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE

Residential sales were steady during October.

Last month a total of 481 residential properties sold in Kitchener-Waterloo and area through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR).

Home sales in October were down 16.6 per cent compared to the same month last year, but still above the previous 5-year October average of 464 sales.

On a year-to-date basis 5,842 residential units have sold compared to 5,816 during the same period in 2016, an increase of 0.4 per cent.

October’s sales included 289 detached homes (down 20.2 per cent), and 107 condominium units (down 17.7 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.).  Sales also included 44 semi-detached homes (down 7.3 per cent) and 38 freehold townhouses (down 2.6 per cent).

The average price of all residential properties sold last month increased 11.4 per cent to $454,398 compared to October 2016.  Detached homes sold for an average price of $541,368, an increase of 13.1 per cent compared to October 2016.

During this same period, the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $249,993 for an increase of 11 per cent.  Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $349,316 (up 13.7 per cent) and $354,668 (up 8 per cent) respectively.

The median price of all residential properties sold in October increased 11.7 per cent to $419,000, and the median price of a detached home during the same period increased 10.2 per cent to $484,000.

“While the number of home sold so far this year is pretty much on pace with last year’s record breaking results, the demand from buyers continues to outpace new listings entering the market,” says James Craig, President of KWAR.  “I anticipate this continuing for the remainder of the year while buyers rush to beat the additional mortgage changes.”

Monday, October 23, 2017

THE LOWDOWN ON BEING A LANDLORD


Purchasing a rental property that you yourself can also live in is a great way to get your foot in the door.

It's much easier to afford a property if you have someone paying rent and the best part is you don't even have to put up with a roommate!

It's also easier to maintain your investment property if you're on site to cut the grass and perform other general repairs.

Finally, you’ll be able to write off a portion of your mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, etc. come tax time.

There are however a few points you’ll want to take into consideration as being a landlord can sometimes be challenging and if you don’t treat it like a business, it won’t be a success.

For instance, having an emergency fund is essential as you’ll be responsible for immediate problems such as a broken furnace or leaky roof as well as overseeing ongoing maintenance.  It's also common to be in between tenants from time to time so you'll have to budget for lost rent.

Furthermore, even the most reliable tenants can be late with their rent which will turn you from investor to collector.  Dealing with disagreeable tenants can also be hard work.  If this is something you feel uncomfortable with, you may want to consider hiring a property manager.


As with any property purchase, it's important to seek professional advice from your real estate agent to ensure you buy the right property, at the right time, in the right location.  If you'd love to operate your own business and are able to plan for the unexpected, being a landlord might be a great fit for you!

Monday, October 9, 2017

KITCHENER-WATERLOO REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE


Kitchener-Waterloo saw solid home sales in September.

A total of 470 residential properties changed hands in Kitchener-Waterloo and area through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR) in September.

This was a decrease of 12.8 percent compared to the record number of sales in September of 2016, but still ahead of the previous 5-year September average of 437 sales.  On a year-to-date basis 5,357 residential units have sold compared to 5,239 during the same period in 2016, an increase of 2.3 per cent.

“We are seeing strong demand continue into the autumn” said KWAR President James Craig.  Residential listing inventory on the KWAR’s MLS® System to the end of September totalled 843, which is ahead of September of last year, but represents just half the number of listings that were on the market in the previous five years (2011-2015) for September.

September’s sales included 285 detached homes (down 14.2 per cent), and 105 condominium units (down 19.2 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.).  Sales also included 38 semi-detached homes (up 22.6 per cent) and 37 freehold townhouses (up 12.1 per cent).

The average price of all residential properties sold last month increased 12 per cent to $455,079 compared to September 2016.  The average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $261,337 for an increase of 6 per cent.  Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $359,448 (up 20.9 per cent) and $372,226 (up 19 per cent) respectively.

Detached homes sold for an average price of $513,873 in September for an increase of 10 per cent compared to a year ago.  “Our local residential real estate market continues to show solid price growth and unit sales,” says Craig who points out that year-over-year price appreciation peaked in April of this year when the average price of a detached home increased 40 percent to $594,108.  Today, on a year-to-date basis, the price of a detached home has averaged $553,029, an increase of 24.7 percent compared to 2016.

“What might seem to be a stabilizing of prices in September may have more to do with the price ranges that people were purchasing in,” says the president of the KWAR.  Craig notes that last month 32% of all residential transactions were in the $300-399,999 range; compared to just 15.6% in April.  “We also saw more transactions in the higher price ranges during the heat of the spring market.  There were 20 sales that occurred over the one million dollar mark in April, compared to only 5 in September.

The average days on market in September was 36, compared to 57 days a year ago.  On a month-to-month basis, it took ten additional days on average from list to sale date in September compared to August.

“The feverish spring conditions have given way to a saner playing field, however an increase in listings would be a welcome shift for homebuyers who would benefit from increased selection across the more affordable price ranges.”

Tuesday, September 12, 2017

HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOUSEPLANTS LEAN AND GREEN

A few houseplants will offer your home a breath of fresh air!

Houseplants are visually appealing and also improve our home's air quality by adding oxygen and removing harmful pollutants.  Here are a few hardy plants that will thrive in any environment:

  1. Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are great for beginners as they’re almost impossible to kill and they also look great in hanging baskets.
  2. Cast Iron Plants (Aspidistra elatior) are foolproof as they only require dim light and don’t need much water.
  3. The Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderana) simply stands in water and has been used by the Chinese for centuries in the art of feng shui to create harmony in the home.
  4. Accidental drowning is a leading cause of death for houseplants.  Water them thoroughly but make sure there are drainage holes so excess water can escape as you don’t want your plants to be sitting in water.

Improper lighting is another reason why promising young plants become statistics.  It's important to match the lighting needs of plants with the amount of light you have to offer.
Houseplants are a simple and cost-effective way to infuse natural, serene style into your home.  Better yet, research suggests they reduce stress and cold related illnesses and also increase our energy levels so go out today and outfit your home with some of nature's lean mean green machines!

Monday, September 4, 2017

KITCHENER-WATERLOO REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE

Kitchener-Waterloo home sales were steady during August.

A total of 483 residential sales occurred through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR) in August.

This was 19.2 per cent below August 2016’s record breaking 598 units sold but still ahead of the previous 5-year August average of 473 sales.

Residential sales last month brings a year-to-date total of 4,876 residential units, an increase of 3.7 per cent compared to 2016.  “I think we’re seeing some stability return to the market” says James Craig, President of KWAR.  “Last summer’s record setting sales was unsustainable and created a market that no one enjoyed.”

Residential sales in August included 286 detached homes (down 18.8 per cent), and 105 condominium units (down 30.9 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.).  Sales also included 50 semi-detached homes (up 25 per cent) and 32 freehold townhouses (down 34.7 per cent).

The average sales price of all residential sales increased 10.1 per cent to $441,992 compared to August 2016.  Detached homes sold for an average price of $519,910 for an increase of 5.9 per cent while the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $294,787 for an increase of 26.5 per cent.  Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $338,191 (up 13.4 per cent) and $351,233 (up 17.3 per cent) respectively.

REALTORS® listed 589 residential properties in K-W and area last month which is on par with August of 2016.  Inventory levels continue to be low at just two months of inventory at the end of August.  The number of months of inventory represents the time it would take to deplete current inventories at the current rate of sales.  The long term average of months of inventory for KW and area is three and half months.  Last month there were 800 active listings on the KWAR’s MLS® System, compared to 760 in August of last year.

The average days on market in August was 26, compared to 33 days a year ago.  On a month to month basis, it took three additional days on average from list to sale date in August compared to July.  “While the tight supply in the market continues to favour sellers we are pleased to see more inventory coming online; the steady rate of sales continues to reinforce that Kitchener-Waterloo and area remains an attractive place to invest in homeownership.” says Craig.

Sunday, August 20, 2017

THINKING BIG IN SMALL SPACES

With a little help, you can still live large in a small space!

If you live in a small space, it’s important that you don’t feel boxed in.  The following tips will help transform your cramped quarters into something more expansive:
  1. Shady Solutions - Painting walls a soft shade and the ceiling bright white will give the illusion of added height.

  2. Is That a Door In Your Pocket? - Installing pocket doors is an easy and inexpensive way to create lots of extra useable space.

  3. Lighten Up - Keep window areas clear of heavy drapes to expand wall area and let the sun shine in as it helps a space feel larger.

  4. Mirror Mirror - Strategically placed mirrors will create the illusion of added space and they’ll also reflect light into adjoining rooms.

  5. Cut a Rug - Having the same type of flooring throughout your home will make it feel more spacious so avoid using too many area rugs.

  6. Hide & Seek - Maximize every hidden space you have by using shelving pockets behind doors or bed risers for that all important under the bed storage.

  7. Cut the Clutter - Have a place for everything so that the surfaces in your home don’t get cluttered.  Storage baskets for example are great for hiding remotes & magazines.

  8. Open Up - Arrange your furniture so you can see as much of the floor as possible.  Rooms with blocked views can feel cramped so move furniture away from entrances.

Whether you're getting ready to put your home on the market or you just want to create more space for yourself, these easy and inexpensive tips will help give you a little extra breathing room.  By thinking big and getting creative, you can comfortably live large in even the smallest of spaces.

Monday, August 7, 2017

PREPARING FOR THE REAL ESTATE ROLLER COASTER

Never wear your emotions on your sleeve during the real estate ride.

Selling your home is a huge financial transaction that can trigger a roller coaster of emotions.  When you're being tossed around at every turn, you need to hang on and stay on track.

Although you’ll likely have a strong connection to your home, try not to get offended if a potential buyer wants to rip up your kitchen or paint over the wood trim.

Also, never take comments personally.  It’s natural for people to complain when they're interested in something so while criticisms may seem negative, they’re actually a sign that the buyer’s interested in your home.

If you receive a “low ball” offer, remember that it’s often just a starting point but be aware of tactics such as “low balling” where an attractive price is initially offered only to be adjusted at a later point on the basis that circumstances have changed.  Recognizing these strategies will help you keep a balanced perspective.

If you’re able to generate multiple offers, make sure you consider more than just the price.  There’s nothing worse than accepting a conditional offer just because it's over the asking price only to have it fall apart a month later when you could have accepted a firm cash offer that was almost as good.

It’s completely natural for both buyers and sellers to experience a wide range of intense emotions as they navigate through the complex real estate process.  However, if you hop on the real estate roller coaster with a competent agent by your side, you’ll not only enjoy the ride but you'll look forward to doing it again!

Monday, July 24, 2017

FRIENDS, FOES AND FACEBOOK WOES

A few simple precautions can secure your page against hackers.

Imagine if someone hacked into your Facebook account, changed your password and started posting inappropriate content.  You'd be forced to sit and watch your reputation go down the drain.

Here are a few ways to avoid a hack:

  1. ix38wq%Pc - Make sure you have a strong password with a mix of numbers, letters and symbols.
  2. Play Hard to Get - Visit the Privacy section under Settings to limit who's able to view your profile details.
  3. Catch a Hacker Early - Select Settings and then Security and Logins and turn on get alerts about unrecognized logins.
  4. Extra Security - Visit Two-Factor Authentication in the Security and Logins section to choose an extra layer of security.
  5. Best Friends - Designate a few friends under Your Trusted Contacts that can help you get back into your account if you get locked out.

Facebook has various security features but they usually have to be manually activated.  Once done though, it’ll be much harder for a hacker to gain access to your account and much easier for you to regain control in the event it does happen.

Monday, July 17, 2017

CONDO CONUNDRUM -- FREEDOM VS. FREEDOM


Consider the pros and cons carefully before purchasing a condo.

Condos appeal to everyone from young urbanites who want to be in the heart of the action to seniors who just want to relax and enjoy their golden years playing tennis and relaxing by the pool.

Families are also starting to gravitate towards condos as they’re an affordable way to escape the suburbs and move to a vibrant downtown atmosphere where various amenities are only steps away.

Aside from being affordable, condos are low maintenance as you don't have to spend your weekends cutting the grass and cleaning the gutters.  They also offer enhanced security features which are perfect for those who like to travel.

Convenience however comes at a price in the form of condo fees which can be costly depending on the amenities offered by the complex.  That said, condos are often very affordable compared to single family homes, especially for those who are downsizing.

When you buy a condo, you don't own the land beneath you but instead share a common interest with others in the complex.  This means you'll be subject to rules and regulations that can dictate anything from the type of planters you’re allowed to display to the kinds of blinds you can hang.

Joint ownership also means you'll be in close contact with your fellow condo owners.  Some people love the sense of community offered by condos but for those who value their privacy, it can be a difficult adjustment.  Pets are another key consideration as Fido may not be welcome in some buildings.

If your real estate vision includes extensive renovations, condo living may not be for you as your options could be limited.  If however you'd rather spend your time chilling by the pool instead of painting shutters, the low maintenance factor may be just what you're after.  It's really a choice of freedom vs. freedom.

Monday, July 10, 2017

WASHING THE WASHING MACHINE

If your washing machine is giving off a musty smell, it’s time for a wash!

Washing the washing machine may seem strange but over time, soap scum and bacteria build up in front loading washing machines which creates a musty smell.

Start by cleaning the rubber door gasket with white vinegar and water.  Next, mix ¼ cup of baking soda with ¼ cup of water and add it to the detergent compartment, then pour 2 cups of vinegar in the drum and run an empty load at the hottest setting.

Clean your washing machine every month to keep it in tip top shape.  If you leave the door open between loads, promptly remove laundry as soon as the load has finished and don’t use too much detergent, you’ll help keep your washing machine fresh and clean.

Thursday, July 6, 2017

KWAR Market Update for June 2017

More listings meet continued buyer demand in June

KITCHENER-WATERLOO, ON (July 5, 2017) –– For the first time this year home sales in June decelerated on a monthly basis. Last month’s 716 residential sales through the Multiple Listing System (MLS® System) of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR) were down 3.2 percent compared to last year’s record breaking June.

This brings the total number of sales during the first half of the year to 3,834, an increase of 9.1 per cent compared to 2016.

“Home sales in June were very strong, and we’re on track to have another record breaking year of residential sales,” says James Craig, President of KWAR. “June is the fourth consecutive month home sales in the Kitchener-Waterloo area have exceeded 700 units. Historically sales in KW and area have only ever surpassed the 700 unit threshold in a single month three previous times.”

Home sales in June included 467 detached homes (down 4.3 per cent compared to June 2016), and 141 condominium units (down 5.4 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 53 semi-detached homes (up 15.2 percent) and 51 freehold townhouses (down 5.6 per cent).

“We definitely saw more supply coming on the market the past two months and that has helped to meet the strong home buyer demand,” said Mr. Craig.

REALTORS® listed 1,083 residential properties in K-W and area last month, a 28.7 per cent increase compared to June of 2016. It’s the second month in a row that the number of new listings put on the market has exceeded 1,000 units, demonstrating an unprecedented surge of supply. Nevertheless, inventory levels remain very low, sitting at near or less than one month of inventory as strong buyer demand endures in Waterloo region.

The average sales price of all residential sales increased 19.8 per cent to $465,772 compared to June 2016. Detached homes sold for an average price of $537,389 for an increase of 19.3 per cent, while the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $276,443 for an increase of 17.6 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $341,716 (up 23.2 per cent) and $380,660 (up 28.4 per cent) respectively.

Addressing the Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) that the Ontario government announced on April 20, 2017, the president of the KWAR says it’s still too soon to know what if any impact it will have on the market. The province recently released its first data tracking sales in the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) from April 24 and May 26 showing that 4.7 per cent of transactions that occurred may be subject to the NRST. “We don’t believe that foreign buyers were making a meaningful impact on Waterloo region’s real estate market,” says Mr. Craig. The NRST is a 15-per-cent tax on the residential property purchased by individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of Canada or by foreign corporations and taxable trustees. Waterloo region is included in the GGH.

The KWAR cautions that average sale price information can be useful in establishing long term trends, but should not be used as an indicator that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a local REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the
areas to probe and what to look for so that buyers get a complete picture of the property and community they’re considering.

Monday, July 3, 2017

SOOTHE YOUR SOUL WITH A WATER FEATURE

Bring new life to your outdoor space by creating a peaceful paradise.


Imagine relaxing after a stressful day at work and unwinding on a backyard lounger while listening to the sound of flowing water.

Your backyard’s the perfect place to take a break from the hectic pace of everyday life, and the addition of a water feature will help transform your garden into an oasis of tranquility, give it a beautiful focal point and may well increase the value of your home.

Water features also create an environmentally friendly haven for wildlife such as frogs, birds and butterflies. There are a wide variety of solar powered fountains to choose from and by utilizing the sun's rays, you'll lower your electricity bills and won't get tangled up in cords.

Water attractions can be as simple or complex as your budget allows, ranging from a simple tabletop fountain to a full-scale babbling brook. Safety of course should be a concern if you have small children and if you plan on digging, make sure to contact the utility companies.

It's important to spend a bit of time during the planning stage to ensure your water feature will integrate with your landscape and environment and then once you’ve finished implementing your new water feature, find a comfortable seat, close your eyes and imagine yourself in paradise.

Monday, June 26, 2017

HOME IS WHERE THE SMART IS

Smart home technology is continuing to grow at a rapid rate!

Smart home technology has gone from basic security to smart windows that open and close based on the weather and indoor air temperature.  Here’s a look at a few smart home innovations that will revolutionize our lives:

  1. Connectivity is King - The connected home is a huge theme this year that features connected appliances, smoke alarms, lightbulbs and doorbells.
  2. Talk to Me - There’s a huge focus on voice activated products around the home including voice controlled garbage cans, air purifiers and fridges.
  3. Home Help - Robots are being used to offer companionship for seniors and there’s also an innovative, lifesaving cane that sends out an alert in the event of an emergency.
  4. Laundry Lackey - Washing machines that can do multiple loads at once will save us valuable time and there’s even a machine in the works that will fold the laundry!
  5. Breathe Easy - Sensors can monitor your indoor air for Co2, VOCs, allergens and humidity levels and they’ll also be able to expel bad air and introduce clean air to your home.
  6. Robot Cleaners - With intelligent visual navigation, app control and powerful suction that cleans in corners, you’ll never need to push a vacuum again!

Smart home technology is always improving and it’s a major selling point because the higher your home's IQ, the higher the resale value will be!  Who knows what the future will bring but one thing’s for sure; smart home technology can provide you and your family convenience and peace of mind.

Monday, June 19, 2017

KITCHENER-WATERLOO REAL ESTATE MARKET REPORT

New record set with over 800 residential home sales in May.

There were 816 residential properties sold through the MLS® system of the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR) in May.

This was an increase of 8.2% compared to May 2016, and a 6% increase compared to last month. This is the second consecutive month unit sales have hit an all-time high.

Home sales in May included 493 detached homes (up 3.8 per cent compared to May 2016), 180 condominium units (up 7.8 per cent) which includes any property regardless of style (i.e. semis, townhomes, apartment, detached etc.). Sales also included 64 semi-detached homes (up 39.1 percent) and 70 freehold townhouses (up 22.8 per cent).

“With the persistent buyer demand we’ve been experiencing these past several months, it was great to see that spike in residential listings enter the market in May, as we’ve had a severe shortage of inventory,” says James Craig, President of the KWAR.

REALTORS® listed 1,271 residential properties in K-W and area last month, a 38.6 per cent increase compared to May of 2016, and a 29 per cent increase compared to the previous month. It’s the first time in two years that the number of new listings put on the market has exceeded the 1,000 unit mark. The five-year average for new listings in May is 989.

While more homes were listed in May, it continues to be a seller’s market in Waterloo region and across the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) as inventories remain tight at near or less than one month of inventory.

The average sales price of all residential sales increased 31 per cent to $496,664 compared to May 2016. Detached homes sold for an average price of $594,047 an increase of 35.3 per cent, while the average sale price for an apartment style condominium was $293,158, an increase of 25.8 per cent. Townhomes and semis sold for an average of $361,198 (up 30 per cent) and $383,819 (up 29.3 per cent) respectively.

Ongoing demand for homes in Waterloo region has resulted in a shorter sales cycle. The average days on market in May was 12, compared to 24 days a year ago. On a month-to-month basis, it took two additional days on average from list to sale date in May compared to April.

Addressing the Fair Housing Plan that was announced by the Ontario government in April, the president of the KWAR notes that it is still too soon to know if the measures will have the intended cooling effect on the market. “For now, home sales are still booming, and prices are going strong. While we continued to see big year-over year price gains in May, the overall residential average price did dip 3 per cent compared to April.” One month does not make a trend Craig concedes, but the spike in listings last month may have contributed to the flatter prices.

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